For the past seven years Gerald Degnan has been making a real difference to the lives of over 100 ill young people across Northern Ireland.

His story began with tragedy after his late mother, Eilish, was diagnosed with stomach cancer back in 1993.

She would have had 90% of her stomach removed but remained determined to live life to the full as best she could.

And that’s the ethos that has lasted beyond her death and through to the formation of the Eilish Degnan Foundation.

Since 2008 it has gone on to help over 100 ill young people enjoy incredible experiences that would never have been possible without the 49-year-old's hard work. Although he's quick to thank the many who've fund raised, including work colleagues at Laganside courts.

The Whiteabbey man’s first big gesture came when he surprised his sick mum Eilish by inviting her hero, motorcycle racer Robert Dunlop to visit.

Eilish with her hero Robert Dunlop

Gerald explained: “Mum always wanted to meet Robert Dunlop and in a very touching surprise for her Robert turned up to meet her.

"She was always up for a good laugh and got on the back of a Honda superbike with Robert. After that he kept in touch with her sending flowers and birthday and Christmas cards.”

Several months after her death Gerald set up the foundation.

He explained: "For the past seven years we've sent children away to Disneyland, holidays, day trips, concerts, shows.

"There can be a lot of stress and worry at times but when you see the family and the face of the child it makes it worth it."

Earlier this year, Gerald arranged for North Belfast boxer Carl Frampton - who faces Leo Santa Cruz this week in the biggest fight of his career this weekend - to visit terminally ill fan Cora Galloway.

The 15-year-old was diagnosed with a brain tumour back in December last year and Frampton spent time with her posing for photographs and speaking in her East Belfast home.

Frampton and Cora

It only happened as a result of the hard work of Gerald and the boxers’ team to make it happen.

Also in the last couple of months, the foundation has donated over 300 Christmas selection boxes and over 400 Easter eggs to Belfast Children’s hospital. Plus over 30 children have been taken to the SSE arena for concerts.

Gerald explained: "My enjoyment is when I see the faces of the kids, or if they get the news that they're going to get somewhere and have a special time together."

For more information on the foundation and its work you can visit here.